Cool Stride.As a star in a popular TV series, The Vampire Diaries, Steven McQueen is carving his own path. By Petricia Yuvita

Born in Los Angeles 24 years ago, Steven R. McQueen portrays the popular Jeremy Gilbert on The Vampire Diaries. Steven started his acting career in 2005, scoring a solid role on Everwood before guest appearances on CSI: Miami, Numb3rs and others. On the big screen, he had a main role on Piranha 3D. The future is bright for Steven as The Vampire Diaries continues to gain international recognition. Here, he gives DA MAN insights into what makes him tick, while showing off his sense of fashion.

DA MAN: Can you tell us about your role on The Vampire Diaries and how you came to be on the show?Steven R. McQueen: I play Elena’s brother ‘Jeremy’ on the show; I got the part by auditioning, but definitely had to fight for the role.

DA MAN: Before you began your own journey on that show, had you read the book?Steven R. McQueen: Originally, I was going to read the books and do some research, but after looking into it, I found out my character was a four-year-old girl named Margaret. So no, I didn’t use the book to research my role.

Jacket and shirt by Emporio Armani

DA MAN: What can you tell us about your role as Jeremy Gilbert on the show, and your approach to playing in it?Steven R. McQueen: He is a character that has been through the ringer at such a young age; he has had to deal with so many adult and unusual situations a normal high school kid shouldn’t have to, so I really have to dig down deep and rely on my imagination.

DA MAN: What kind of role would you say is the most ideal for you?Steven R. McQueen: A biographical film would be really fun to do. I would love the opportunity to be able to study everything about a person and try to retell their story—it would be a challenge that I would welcome. It also allows you to walk in someone else’s shoes for a little and live their life. I think I would most like to play a musician.

Shirt and vest by John Varvatos

DA MAN: What natural gift would you like to possess?Steven R. McQueen: A natural gift, hmm let me think … you know I would love to be able to play all instruments (including being able to sing) and speak all languages.

DA MAN: What foreign language would you like to be fluent in?Steven R. McQueen: I would like to learn French, Italian, and Latin (even though it’s a “Dead” language it’s the root of others).

Shirt by Calvin Klein, jacket by John Varvatos and pants by Emporio Armani

DA MAN: What is your dream of happiness?Steven R. McQueen: My dream of happiness … well I don’t know if there is one answer for that. Everyone is looking for the same thing—to be happy.

DA MAN: What are your dreams for your career?Steven R. McQueen: I just love to tell stories. As for a goal, I would like the opportunity to be able to play a wide range of different characters and people.

DA MAN: Who is your favorite TV villain?Steven R. McQueen: Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad without question. Not sure I would label him a villain, but more of an antihero.